SPORTS LEISURE AND
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SPECIALISTS

5 golf holiday destinations to rival Spain and Portugal

For golfers wanting to tee off abroad, the first golf holiday destinations to come to mind and more than likely to be Spain and Portugal. However, there are plenty of other top choices when it comes to hitting the fairways overseas.

Good weather, challenging, yet fun-to-play courses and top experiences can certainly be found away from the Iberian Peninsula.

We picked out five other locations for your next round abroad.

Turkey

In particular: Belek

Since the Turkish Open joined the European Tour calendar in 2013, Turkey has been able to show off it’s golfing credentials. The event, won by players such as Justin Rose and Brooks Koepka only adds to the idea that the country is becoming more and more ingrained on the mind of golf fans.

But the pros shouldn’t have it all to themselves should they? The resort of Belek is very much geared up to tourists and golfers, needs. Situated on the Mediterranean Coast, just to the east of Antalya, the town boasts 13 pristine establishments. Four of Europe’s top 100 courses are said to be in the town itself.

Whether you challenge yourself at the Montgomerie Maxx, home of the Turkish Open, or opt for one of the lesser known dozen, the three hour flight is well worth taking to enjoy perfect golfing weather in a setting to match.

Morocco

In particular: Marrakesh

While the courses between the cities of Rabat and Casablanca are great golf holiday destinations in themselves, Marrakesh really has it all. A weekend golf break to this mystical city gives you the choice of 13 local courses and an incredible cultural experience to boot.

Finish up at the 18th before heading into the ancient medina to get a snapshot of local life. Wander the main square of Jemaa el-Fnaa after dark as food vendors ply the streets offering up their tasty wares. The city may be a tourist hot-spot but that doesn’t mean Morocco loses it’s cultural charm. Friendly locals, good food and a sense of adventure mean Morocco is top of the list for those wanting to avoid the European options on offer.

The north African nation holds the trump card over the likes of Spain and Portugal when it comes to autumn and winter playing conditions. An average temperature in November of 17 degrees means there’s no need to get off the golf course later in the year.

Egypt

In particular: Hurghada

Some areas of Egypt may be off limits to tourists on safety grounds, but that doesnt mean the whole country should be avoided. Capital Cairo is home to a number of courses, nestled alongside some of the finest ancient monuments in the world, but it’s further to the south-east that we recommend.

The resort of Hurghada is popular for families and golfers alike, and it’s easy to see why. Perfect year-round weather with views of the Red Sea that are simply incredible, golfers coming to this part of the world have it all going for them.

Egypt’s oldest seaside town boasts a number of luxury hotels, many with their own courses, each just a stone’s throw from the idyllic Red Sea. Slightly further north of Hurghada lies El Gouna, another option for golfers looking to enjoy warm weather, spectacular scenery and an immersive history.

France

In particular: Biarritz

When thinking of the Basque region, one’s mind may immediately draw to the Spanish side of the boarder, but write off the south-west of France at your peril. The town of Biarritz offers a lot for those looking for a Gallic golfing getaway, picturesque beaches, pumping nightlife and plenty of post-round activities to enjoy.

The eight courses in the vicinity of the town may not be attached to five star hotels or ‘stick their chest’ out to show off in the same manner of other golf holiday destinations, but that’s why we like them.

The Links-style Chiberta provides a real challenge for golfers with a stiff Atlantic breeze meaning your approach play really has to be on point, while the clubhouse at the Golf d’Arcangues venue places golfers inside a restored 15th century farmhouse, perfect for a post-round glass of wine.

Ireland

In particular: Limerick

You don’t have to travel too far for a great overseas golfing break. A short hop across the Irish Sea bring you a wealth of options.

The host of the Ryder Cup in 2006, the K Club allows the amateurs to try and emulate the pros while being just a short drive from the Guinness-fuelled party that is Dublin. Quieter breaks come no better than setting off for Killarney, where the backdrop of the eponymous Natonal Park is enough for anyone to get over the odd bogey on the course.

Our pick though, goes to the courses around Limerick, and in particular Adare Manor. The course was redesigned in 2017, re-establishing itself as a ‘parkland paradise’. The lavish manor house that welcomes golfers back after 18 beautifully cared-for holes is a sight for sore eyes, while the on-site Castle Hotel offers a stay and play service for those looking to really splash the case on their next golfing break.